The Heppner Fire Department has been awarded a $10,000 grant aimed at enhancing safety measures for its volunteer firefighters. The announcement came on August 18, 2023, coinciding with the observance of Volunteer Firefighters Recognition Day. This funding, provided by State Farm in collaboration with the National Volunteer Fire Council (NVFC), is part of a broader initiative that benefits 150 volunteer fire departments across 44 states.
Support for Volunteer Firefighters
The grant is part of this year’s Good Neighbor Firefighter Safety Program, which focuses on securing vital equipment that helps ensure the safety of responders and the communities they serve. Volunteer firefighters constitute approximately 65% of the fire service in the United States, highlighting their critical role in emergency response.
Tony Pierotti, Fire Chief of Pendleton, acknowledged the ongoing staffing and training challenges faced by volunteer fire departments throughout Oregon. He emphasized the importance of grant funding in sustaining operations, stating, “Any little bit of help, especially for small and volunteer departments, makes a big difference.”
In a related context, Pierotti noted that his department, Pilot Rock Fire Department, benefits from a separate staffing grant of $35,000, which allows for daytime staffing. “It’s not 24/7, but we can at least have people on duty during the day,” he added. This support is crucial for maintaining operational readiness during fire season.
The Financial Strain on Small Departments
Many rural and small-town fire departments operate with limited budgets, making it challenging to acquire the necessary equipment and gear. According to NVFC Chair Steve Hirsch, firefighting and rescue equipment can be prohibitively expensive, leaving many departments struggling to secure essential funding. The grants from State Farm are instrumental in allowing these departments to purchase vital equipment, such as personal protective gear, rescue tools, and communication devices.
For individuals interested in helping their communities, Pierotti encourages reaching out to local fire departments for information. “Go find your local fire department and just start asking questions,” he advised. He also cautioned that the commitment required to serve as a volunteer firefighter is significant, stating, “The days of just being able to kind of say, ‘I am a volunteer’ and show up when you want to do are kind of over because of the skill level involved.”
In addition to the financial grants, State Farm has taken steps to further support volunteer responders by offering complimentary NVFC memberships to the first 2,000 eligible applicants. These memberships provide access to a range of benefits, including free training and support services, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of volunteer firefighters.
For more information about the grant program and its impact on local fire departments, visit the NVFC website.
